Today's Close-Up S2025E08 - 'Deathonomics': How Russia is Enjoying Growth

Three years after launching its invasion of Ukraine, Russia is defying unprecedented sanctions and logging robust economic growth. The resilience has been driven by a major increase in military spending. The Kremlin's heavy investment in munitions production has not only bolstered the defense sector but also driven up earnings and consumption. In a manifestation of what one expert has dubbed "deathonomics," the government has also ramped up financial support for both soldiers and the families of those killed in battle. We consulted a Russia expert about the true impact of the sanctions, and asked what the world can expect next.

Guest:
Hattori Michitaka (Professor, Hokkaido University)